How to say 'Child' in Japanese | 子

word

Meaning

Child

Reading

Kanji

子Child

Explanation

The Japanese noun '子 (こ)' primarily means 'child'. It is a common and versatile term used to refer to a young person, typically under the age of 12. It can also be used affectionately or informally to refer to someone younger, regardless of biological relation. For example: That child is cute「あの子はかわいい」(あのこはかわいい). My child is studying「私の子は勉強している」(わたしのこはべんきょうしている). Additionally, '子' can sometimes refer to offspring in a broader sense, such as in animals or plants, but this usage is less common in everyday conversation. The word is neutral in tone and widely used in both formal and informal contexts.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

163

Composition

kanji

Handwriting